Xan Dances
About
I am a ballroom dance instructor and choreographer of over 12 years. I've worked with all skill levels and ages; from beginner to gold level and from ages 8 to 80. I teach between 30 and 40 styles of ballroom and would be delighted to work with you.
Ballroom dance is an art form. It is two people coming together and moving as one. Art is how we decorate space, music is how we decorate time, and dance is how we decorate both.
There's a quote that is attributed to Winston Churchill, though there is debate about whether he actually said it. Someone had asked if they should cut funding to the arts during World War II in order to aide with the war effort. Mr. Churchill replied, "Then what are we fighting for?"
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I start with your goals, and figure out what you want to learn. I can break down dance into bite size pieces, and I tailor my lessons to fit your skill level and any physical limitations you may have.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I studied Ballroom dance for 8 and 1/2 years under Don Wolheim in Paradise, California. We were a nonprofit dance studio that taught dance to underprivileged children and teens. Since then, I've been choreographing and teaching for weddings and general lessons.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Private One-on-One lessons..............$35/hour
Couples Private Lessons....................$40/hour
Couples Choreography.......................$50/hour
Group Lessons (3-10 people).............$55/hour
Group Lessons (11-20 people)............$65/hour
Group Choreography (3-10 people)...$65/hour
Group Choreography (11-20 people)..$75/hour
How did you get started teaching?
Paradise Dancers, the studio I first started with, believed that the best way to learn was to teach. I began teaching just a few months after beginning my lessons, in part to focus on my skills, in part to give back to my studio. I taught adult classes as well as children's classes, but I primarily worked with teens and young adults from beginners to gold level dancers.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with all age ranges, all skill levels, and all goals. I've worked with those with physical disabilities- I once choreographed a wedding piece for a couple- the groom had been in a nasty accident and was relegated to a wheel chair for months- I taught him shortly after he regained his ability to walk, and they had a beautiful wedding.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I started choreographed for weddings a while back, and being able to create a truly memorable first dance is such a powerful thing. I love sharing the art form with everybody, and any chance to teach brings me such joy.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone with experience in your skill level. Ask where they start. And make sure they have patience and encouragement to share.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What are you looking to learn, and why? Are you looking for a romantic activity with your partner, a fun hobby you can socialize with, or a choreographed piece for a special occasion? Find someone who can tailor their style to help you achieve your goals.